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Earlier last month, Kevin De Bruyne announced that he would be taking his leave from Manchester City by the end of this season.
Following a decade-long illustrious career at the Etihad, De Bruyne is set to bid his goodbyes to the club, with his last home match upcoming on May 20, against Bournemouth in the Premier League.
The upcoming game is officially De Bruyne's farewell match, drawing the curtains on his tremendous achievements at Man City, including 19 major trophies.
Plans for De Bruyne's farewell match include the Belgian star receiving a guard of honor from teammates at full-time, followed by him giving a speech on the pitch. He will receive gifts from the wife and son of the late Man City legend Colin Bell.
While plans for his farewell appear to be in order, doubts have now surfaced on whether De Bruyne will be in Guardiola's starting line-up against Bournemouth.
Speaking ahead of the clash, Guardiola made no promises about De Bruyne starting for City in his last home match.
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What did Pep Guardiola say about Kevin De Bruyne's last home match for Man City?
During his pre-match press conference, Guardiola was asked about De Bruyne's chances in his final home match for City. The Catalan manager candidly admitted (comments via The Guardian)that his decision will be focused on what will most benefit his squad.
Man City currently stand sixth in the Premier League table with two matches remaining, and are yet to secure a spot in the Champions League next season.
Guardiola mentioned that a potential Champions League qualification is 'what Kevin wants' and said,
"What Kevin wants is that we win the game to qualify for the Champions League next season. That is what Kevin wants. It cannot be otherwise. I’m going to decide the best so that we can have the best chance to win the game against Bournemouth."
Since his arrival at Man City in 2015, De Bruyne has registered 108 goals and 177 assists in 420 matches. Even though doubts over his minutes on the pitch for his final home game prevail, tonight will be an emotional affair at Etihad for the Cityzens as the midfield maestro takes his leave as a club legend.
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